CAUGHT ON CAMERA: Thieves Steal From Car Lot For Fifth Time

by Erika Cervantes

FRESNO, Calif. (KMPH) —

The manager of a Southeast Fresno car dealership says he's sick of crooks breaking into his business. The latest burglary was caught on camera and police think there have been at least three other break-ins at the car lot.

Fresno Police say the men in the surveillance video spent about an hour at the dealership last Saturday. The video shows the men stealing tires, rims, stereos, and car batteries.

"It's demoralizing to have it happen," says 'Westland Auto Sales' Manager Eric Beneke, "It hurts the bottom line and we're a small business. So every time we get hit, its $2000 or $3000."

Beneke says the latest break-in is possibly the fifth time the same guys have broken into the dealership. It's getting so bad Beneke says he hasn't replaced batteries in the some of the cars, because they might be stolen again.

"It's almost gotten to a point where we're used to it in a way," adds Beneke, "Every time we hope we get closer to catching them."

The dealership does have several cameras and a wrought iron fence that's locked at night. However, Beneke says that doesn't keep the crooks from driving away with stolen car parts.

The Fresno Police Department is looking for any information about the men caught on camera. If you know who they are call Crime Stoppers at 559-498-STOP (7867). You can receive a $1000 reward for information leading to an arrest.